In an era where the digital divide seems to be widening, Costa Rica emerges as a surprising protagonist in the narrative of artificial intelligence (AI). Enter David McCourt, the billionaire not quite cut from the usual cloth, who sees this vibrant Central American country as a potential frontrunner in the global AI revolution.
The Unconventional Billionaire’s Vision
David McCourt, an Irish-American entrepreneur with a portfolio that spans over 20 telecommunications companies across nine countries, is currently partnering with the Irish government on a colossal public-private initiative. This project aims to blanket Ireland with broadband internet as part of a 30-year, €5 billion plan. However, McCourt’s ambitions extend far beyond the Emerald Isle’s shores.
From his investment firm, Granahan McCourt Capital, McCourt has poured over €100 million into Ireland’s telecommunications, notably through acquiring and expanding Enet since 2013. Yet, it’s his perspective on capitalism’s trajectory and his critique of modern politics that positions him as a maverick in the business world. McCourt champions the idea that profitability should not come at the community’s expense, a principle he believes is egregiously overlooked in today’s economic landscape.
Costa Rica: A Model of Equitable AI Deployment
McCourt’s gaze has now turned towards Costa Rica, a country he perceives as embodying the virtues necessary for ethical and impactful AI deployment. Scheduled to speak at the “Past, Present, and Future of the Internet in Costa Rica” conference organized by the Club de Investigación Tecnológica, McCourt plans to discuss how AI can address some of humanity’s most pressing issues, returning a sense of humanity, dignity, and justice to the global stage.
Costa Rica, with its highly educated, intelligent, and kind-hearted populace, stands out to McCourt. He notes the country’s minimal emigration rates, attributing this to its breathtaking natural beauty and the empathetic character it fosters among its citizens. This, in McCourt’s eyes, makes Costa Rica an ideal candidate to lead in the AI arena.
The Global Stage Awaits
As the world grapples with issues of economic disparity, environmental degradation, and a general loss of community, AI presents a unique opportunity to recalibrate the scales of justice. McCourt’s vision for AI extends beyond mere technological advancement; it’s about leveraging this unprecedented tool to foster equity, justice, and essential service provision—areas where both capitalism and politics have faltered.
McCourt’s interest in Costa Rica is not just theoretical. He’s aware of the predictive models being developed by the Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social (CCSS) to identify individuals at high risk for Type 2 diabetes, as well as AI applications in organic coffee production that are more environmentally friendly. Furthermore, he’s intrigued by creative uses of AI in the arts, as demonstrated by musician Pedro Capmany, who used AI to sing a duet with his late father, José Capmany.
A Call to Leadership
In McCourt’s view, countries like Costa Rica and Ireland are positioned to seize a unique moment in history. As traditional global leaders falter, these nations have the opportunity to step forward and set a new standard for ethical, impactful AI use.
As we stand on the precipice of a new era, Costa Rica’s role in the AI revolution is becoming increasingly clear. With its blend of natural beauty, empathetic society, and innovative spirit, Costa Rica is not just participating in the conversation—it’s poised to lead it.
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